Charlie Puth’s Super Bowl Performance: A Closer Look

Updated on: February 8, 2026 / 6:30 PM EST / CBS News

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Charlie Puth showcased his impressive vocal range at the 2026 Super Bowl. Before the kickoff between the New England Patriots and the Seattle Seahawks at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, the 34-year-old artist delivered a memorable rendition of the national anthem. Known for hits like “See You Again” and “We Don’t Talk Anymore,” Puth has often referred to the national anthem as “one of the most beautiful pieces of music,” yet among the most challenging to perform.

In a video shared on social media in November, Puth detailed the complexity of the “Star Spangled Banner,” explaining that it demands an extensive vocal range. While typical songs span around one octave, from low D to high D, the anthem expands from a low D to a high A.

Puth’s journey to this prestigious performance spot is rooted in his early realization of his musical talents. Raised in Rumson, New Jersey, Puth shared with CBS News in 2022 how his upbringing, with a music teacher for a mother and a builder for a father, was instrumental. He quickly discovered his perfect pitch, an ability to identify musical notes precisely, which seemed normal to his younger self.

His significant break came through YouTube, where Adele’s “Someone Like You” cover captured Ellen DeGeneres’s attention. This led to a successful career marked by his debut album “Nine Track Mind” and collaborations with other artists. Among the songs he’s helped produce are Justin Bieber and The Kid LAROI’s “Stay” and Maroon 5’s “Lips on You.” During the COVID pandemic, Puth took to TikTok, branding himself as “Professor Puth,” providing insights into his music-making process.

The Selection Process for the Super Bowl Anthem

The NFL, in collaboration with Jay-Z’s Roc Nation, selects the national anthem performer for the Super Bowl. Since their partnership in 2019, Roc Nation has played a key role in shaping the entertainment narrative of this event. In a recent Rolling Stone interview, Puth mentioned his desire to sing at the Super Bowl LX. His recorded demo, allegedly played for Jay-Z, received a positive response, ultimately leading to NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell’s approval.

Past Super Bowl Anthem Performers

The privilege of singing the national anthem at the Super Bowl has been bestowed on many prominent artists. In 2025, Jon Batiste performed before the Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles matchup. Earlier years saw Reba McEntire in 2024 and Chris Stapleton in 2023. Legendary performances have included names like Luther Vandross (1997), Cher (1999), and Beyoncé (2004).

Charlie Puth now joins these icons as the second New Jersey native after Whitney Houston in 1991. Reflecting on these prior renditions, Puth expressed in January that while inspired by Whitney, replicating her iconic performance is unattainable.

Timing of Past Performances

Performances of the “Star Spangled Banner” at the Super Bowl vary in length, generally lasting between one to two minutes. Alicia Keys holds the record for the longest rendition at Super Bowl XLVII in 2013, lasting 2 minutes and 36 seconds. On the other hand, Neil Diamond’s performance at Super Bowl XXI in 1987 was the shortest, coming in at 1 minute and 2 seconds.

Acknowledgment to Andrea Park for contributing to this report.

In: Charlie Puth, Super Bowl